Overview & Reviews

Can you be cool and practical? Skinny jeans and high-heeled shoes would indicate otherwise, but the Scion tC proves that it just might be possible. It certainly seems pretty cool, with a coupe body style, sharp looks and a variety of customization opportunities for younger buyers accustomed to getting things the way they want them. Scion has also frequently updated the tC's audio systems, which has given it a leg up as iPods and iPhones have gradually taken over the world.

At the same time, however, the tC's coupelike roof line masks hatchback utility with its impressive cargo capacity and a surprisingly spacious backseat. Moving dorm rooms or taking your friends out on the town is consequently much easier with the tC than it is with traditional coupes. This ability to be both cool and practical is indeed the tC's primary appeal, although sharing a reputation for reliability with Toyota (Scion's parent company) is also a compelling attraction.

Current Scion tC
The Scion tC is a five-seat compact hatchback coupe. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, boasting 179 horsepower (1 less than before) and 173 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is the lone factory option. Although the tC's combined fuel economy estimate of 26 mpg is respectable, most rivals are more fuel-efficient.

The tC comes in two trim levels: base and the limited edition "10 Series." Standard features for the base tC include 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a touchscreen interface and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, an iPod/USB interface and RCA output jacks. The 10 Series, which celebrates Scion's 10th birthday, adds unique silver paint, dark-finished wheels, illuminated badges, LED accent lighting, an illuminated center console and premium stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Dealer-installed options include a navigation system, upgraded audio units and multicolored interior mood lighting.

Although the Scion tC is classified as a compact car, its relatively long wheelbase provides ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Long doors and far-sliding seats make entry and exit relatively easy, and rear passengers will also enjoy the split-folding rear seats that recline up to 45 degrees. With its rear seats folded down, the tC has nearly as much cargo volume as a compact SUV. The tC's passenger-side front seat also folds flat, which allows the car to accommodate long items such as surfboards.

Though the tC isn't especially sporty to drive, the interior does its best to indicate otherwise. The thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel looks as if it was pulled from a racecar, while controls canted toward the driver further this impression. Unfortunately, the interior is filled with hard plastics that seem cheaper than those found in the tC's rivals. On the road, the Scion tC is responsive and involving enough to keep you entertained around town, but not so sporty that you'd relish driving it on a curvy back road. The steering has decent weighting and feel, but the stability control has a tendency to kick in frequently during aggressive driving.

Overall, the Scion tC is a respectable choice for a compact coupe. If driving fun is a priority, there are better choices, including Scion's own FR-S. But for those shoppers mainly wanting something stylish and practical, the tC will certainly satisfy.

Used Scion tC Models
The current-generation tC debuted for 2011. The following year brought standard Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, as well as the Release Series 7.0 that sported flashy yellow paint, a body kit, black wheels and keyless ignition and entry. For 2013 there was the similarly themed but very red Release Series 8.0, whose highlights also included a sport-tuned suspension, a center-exit exhaust and, for those fitted with the automatic transmission, paddle shifters. Although otherwise similar, note that these tCs lack the current version's updates that include revised styling with a much more aggressive face, an improved automatic transmission (with rev-matched downshifts) and slightly retuned suspension and steering systems.

The first-generation Scion tC was produced from 2005-'10. Like the current car, it was a two-door hatchback coupe with five seats and a single trim level. Standard equipment included 17-inch wheels, air-conditioning, split-folding-and-reclining rear seats, keyless entry, full power accessories with one-touch power windows, a dual-pane sunroof, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a premium sound system. An iPod interface was added for 2008, making the tC one of the first vehicles to get such a feature.

A considerable number of optional features and accessories (from the factory or dealer-installed) were available on the Scion coupe. Most notable was the airbag package with side and head curtain airbags, so make sure to note whether a used tC is so equipped. Other mods included interior and exterior styling add-ons, 18-inch wheels, audio system head unit upgrades and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance parts.

Power came from a strong 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 161 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. Fuel economy was one of the tC's detriments, with an EPA combined rating of 24 mpg for the automatic -- about the same that most midsize sedans offer. There was a dealer-installed TRD supercharger available that raised engine output to 200 hp.

Inside, this tC's layout was very similar to that of the current car, with a roomy reclining backseat and generous hatchback trunk. There wasn't as much front seat legroom, however, and the steering wheel did not telescope. The tC's cabin had an upscale look and feel thanks to high-quality materials (for the time and class) and metallic-look trim pieces. An elegant "waterfall"-style center stack flowed into the center console, with a panel that covered up whichever of the many available stereo faceplates were affixed to the car.

In Scion tC reviews, our editors commented that this tC was enjoyable to drive, though hardly a sport coupe. Although its acceleration figures weren't stunning, the tC was quick enough for typical urban use. As with the current car, we were most impressed by its ability to be both stylish and practical, noting it was an ideal car for the youthful demographic for which it was intended.

This original tC changed very little during its run. However, there were minor exterior and interior updates made for 2008 -- including the addition of an iPod-specific interface. There were several updates made to the available stereo systems over the years as well, along with new items added to the extensive optional features list. A decontented, tuner-intended version known as the Spec was available for a few model years (ending in 2008) and could easily be picked out of a crowd by its unique paint colors and badge-less grille. The Release Series 6.0 for 2010 looked similar, but it actually had more equipment than the norm.

User Reviews:

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  loving my tC - 2005 Scion TC
  By hot momma - June 2 - 11:56 am

  I love my black cherry Scion tC. I get so many compliments on the way it looks people actually stop and ask me what kind of car it is. Obviously i tell them its a Scion made by Toyota and how you get so much for the money. Mind you, I am 44 years old and out of the minivan stage. So I thought why not buy something that is young, fun and classy looking at the same time.

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  My 1st Real Big Purchase! - 2005 Scion TC
  By Destinygirl - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I couldnt be happier w/ this car. Everything that i had ask for. The stock rims,moonroofs,keyless entry..everything. i was comparing this car to the honda accord coupe and boy do they charge you for every option you put on. But w/ the scion tc~its all stock. I love the fact that i have only seen 1 so far on the road, and everywhere i go,i get comments on my car. its a great feeling. Also, another added plus to this car is the fact that it is a camry motor, so it is reliable!!!

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  Nice Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By fbraz19 - May 30 - 11:48 am

  I bought this car new in July of 2006. Its been a nice little car for me. I opted for the manual as a personal preference. I also opted for the iPod stereo upgrade, was not standard in this model year. Its been a great little car with the exception of a few items. The rear hatch latch came completely off on this car just before the 30k mile warranty was up and the dealer replaced it. The struts for said hatch have worn out and I had to buy new ones, I opted for ordering these from out of state due to cost. Keep in mind that I open the hatch at least 2 times a day 5 days a week for the last 4 years. Other then these two items mechanically the car has been great. Brakes/Rotors replaced once.

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  Fun Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By Tara - May 26 - 2:36 am

  The tC is a fun car to drive. Everyone who I have let drive it loves it. Also everyone loves the sound system. My only complaint comes 2 months after I bought it when the check engine light came on after sitting for 3 days while I was sick. Turns out the gas cap was loose but there is nothing that says "Check Gas Cap before taking to dealership." That sorta would have been useful and relieved stress over what was wrong.

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  What a great car! - 2006 Scion TC
  By djglass - May 18 - 3:00 am

  Forget "great car for the money," this is a great car period! Its has great acceleration, handles decently, shifts like a hot knife through warm butter, gets good fuel milage, tons of standard features, booming system, etc. Considering that you walk out the door (tax, licence, etc. included) for under 18K this car cannot be beat! I test drove a Mazda 3, Ford Focus, Acura RSX, and Hyundai Tiberon (all more expensive with the features I wanted) and although they are all great car and were fun to drive, I couldnt ignore the value of the tC vs. the competition.

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  2008 Scion tC - 2008 Scion TC
  By scribble - May 13 - 1:23 pm

  Absolutely wonderful car! It has a good deal of power for a 4 cylinder, and despite the mileage ratings Im averaging 27-28 mpg with mixed city and highway driving. The tC comes loaded from the factory with everything a buyer could want. The upgraded stereo is worth the extra price and sounds awesome (for most users at least). I have no regrets about buying this car.

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  Cheaply Made - 2008 Scion TC
  By ken117 - May 9 - 6:56 am

  Had a 2008 Scion TC for a bit longer than five years. While not the worst vehicle I have owned, that would be a Dodge, after five years the overall cheapness of the vehicle was starting to show. For example, the rear hatch latch simply broke one day. Another, the paint is so thin and soft it scratches at every opportunity. To be honest, I was happy to be rid of the TC.

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  I Love my car - 2008 Scion TC
  By Deanna - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Im so happy i bought this car. Its so much fun to drive gotta watch my heavy foot. The car has spunk. The look is stylish but the paint seemed to fade after a few months! My sharp black turned dull. It had a sparkle to start that not so much anymore. Even the dealer told me right off the bat which was much appreciated that the tires will need to be changed ASAP. I was sliding when it was a light rain!

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  Great Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By methuen22 - May 2 - 3:23 pm

  This car is really great. I have no real concerns about it.

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  TC WOW - 2006 Scion TC
  By TC - April 28 - 7:13 pm

  I researched the TC for months before I bought it, and was impressed with the reviews and ratings of the TC. When I bought the TC I was even more impressed, their is no car out on the market that you can buy that even comes close to the bang for the buck that you get with the TC. The interior is neat and well designed and the outside is sporty enough to turn heads on the road. I have no complaints about the car and would recommend it to anybody looking for for a coupe.